What should we see in an effective mathematics classroom?
-An ongoing emphasis on the use and meaning of mathematical terms, including their definitions and their connections to real-world entities and/or pictures
Lead a department/team discussion focused on responding to the following questions:
In everyday practice, when and how are mathematical vocabulary and notation addressed?
What strategies do you use to help students develop and retain an understanding of mathematical terms?
-Student and teacher explanations that make frequent and precise use of mathematical terms, vocabulary, and notation
Introduce an activity through the use of a “brain dump” (p. 27). In what ways does this activity promote a language-rich discussion?
-An extensive use of word walls that capture the key terms and vocabulary with pictures when appropriate and in English as well as Spanish when appropriate
In what ways are word walls being used in your classroom? How can a word wall be used effectively?
Have students complete the Frayer Model for a mathematical term or idea recently discussed. To see an example, click on the following document:
Have students keep and update a word wall in notebook. Periodically have students visit the wall and explain key terms. Have students highlight any terms they cannot fully describe in their own words.
Instructional Shift 4: Create language-rich classroom routines.
Chapter 5: Language-Rich Classes
What should we see in an effective mathematics classroom?
-An ongoing emphasis on the use and meaning of mathematical terms, including their definitions and their connections to real-world entities and/or pictures
-Student and teacher explanations that make frequent and precise use of mathematical terms, vocabulary, and notation
-An extensive use of word walls that capture the key terms and vocabulary with pictures when appropriate and in English as well as Spanish when appropriate